Aston celebrates student mentor dedication

19 May 2014

A scheme which brings students from different year groups and backgrounds together to form mentoring relationships was praised at a special celebration evening.

The Peer Mentoring Scheme encourages Aston University students of different ages to meet on a one-to-one basis to share their experiences, help provide assistance and even form friendships.

Students who volunteer as mentors offer support, guidance and reassurance to their younger peers, discussing a wide range of issues while developing their own communication and personal skills.

The celebratory event, held last week, recognised the hard work and commitment of all Aston undergraduate students who had been involved in the scheme this year, whether as Mentors or Mentees.

Awards were given to those who had offered particularly outstanding support to mentees from across the Aston’s four Academic Schools. The winners were:

• Amandeep Kaur – Pre-Entry E-Mentor of the Year

• Daniel Wicks – Transition Mentor of the Year

• Ricky Mistry – Final Year Mentor of the Year

Ricky’s mentee, Business and Management student Kiran Jiwa, said:“I cannot tell you how much I appreciate being allocated to Ricky. He has always been so approachable and kind, going the extra mile to help me. The advice he has given will definitely remain with me for a very long time, if not for the rest of my life. His support has been absolutely invaluable.”

She said:“I would like to congratulate everyone who has taken part in the Peer Mentoring Scheme for their hard work and dedication. The scheme fosters an excellent sense of community and is a fantastic source of support for mentees from someone who is a few steps ahead of them in their university career.

“It allows students to take control of their own learning and to really make the most of their time here at Aston. It also enables them to develop a range of essential skills which will enhance their employability a great deal.”

The scheme has grown rapidly since it was introduced in 2006, with more than 2,000 students involved during the 2013-14 academic year.